1. Difference in external features: the bulge between the eyes of the sauger is more pronounced, which makes the outline of their face more prominent. Adult sauger also grows thick lips, adding a unique character to their appearance. Cyprinid fish have a less pronounced bulge between the eyes and a flat facial profile, without the thick lips that characterize the sauger.

2. Difference in habitat: The sauger and mackerel also differ in habitat. The sauger mainly inhabits very steep reef slopes, seaway slopes and lagoon reefs. It prefers to find food and shelter in these areas. Cyprinids mainly inhabit flat sandy or weedy areas at coral reefs or near lagoon areas, lagoons and seaward reefs, and are found in deep-sea coral reefs. There is some variation in habitat selection.